Charles-Théodore Frère (1814-1888), also known as Frère Bey, was a French painter. His many trips to Africa and the Middle East led him to orientalist painting.
It was particularly after one of his stays in Algeria that Théodore Frère began to paint Orientalist subjects. In 1853, he travelled to Egypt and set up a studio in Cairo. It was then that he became a court painter, earning him the title of "Bey". He was inspired by the landscapes, customs and people of these regions. He produced numerous works depicting daily life, markets, street scenes, palace interiors, desert landscapes, as well as portraits and historical scenes.
Here, the artist captures not only the natural beauty of the Egyptian landscape, but also the timeless atmosphere and serenity that emanates from this iconic region. This painting invites the viewer to escape to a world where time seems suspended, where the tranquillity of the river inspires contemplation and reflection.